The Oxbridge application deadline is 15 October of Year 13 — earlier than every other UK university. But the groundwork needs to be laid throughout Year 12. Here is a month-by-month guide.
September – October (Year 12)
Begin reading seriously around your chosen subject. Go beyond the A-Level syllabus. Identify two or three books, papers or lectures that genuinely interest you and engage with them properly. Start a reading log — it will be invaluable when writing your personal statement.
November – December
Research your course options at Oxford and Cambridge carefully. Understand the differences between similar courses at each university. Attend open days if possible. Begin thinking about which college you might apply to — or whether to make an open application.
January – March
If you are applying for Mathematics, begin STEP preparation now. If you are applying for Medicine, register for the UCAT and begin preparation. For all courses, continue reading and developing your academic interests. Speak to current students at Oxford or Cambridge if you can.
April – June
Sit the UCAT if applying for Medicine (sittings open in July but preparation should begin now). Begin drafting your personal statement — start with the ideas and books that have genuinely engaged you and build from there. Get it reviewed multiple times.
July – August
Finalise your personal statement. If required, register for your admissions test (ESAT, TMUA, TARA, LNAT registrations open in August). Sit the UCAT if applying for Medicine.
September (Year 13)
Submit your UCAS application by mid-September to give your referee time to complete their reference before the 15 October deadline. Sit your admissions test in October if required.
October – December
15 October: UCAS deadline. Prepare intensively for interviews — mock interviews, wide reading, practice thinking out loud. Interviews typically take place in December.